Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Monday, June 24, 2024
South Carolina Education & Business Summit
Jun 24 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Greenville Convention Center

Join us on June 24th-27th at the Greenville Convention Center for the 2024 South Carolina Education and Business Summit. Come on out and checkout new innovations and opportunities for networking for educators and entrepreneurs.

Parking can be located off Exposition Drive and Eisenhower Drive.

To register: Registration (ebsummit.info)

Tuesday, June 25, 2024
 Ribbon Cutting for Drip Sauna
Jun 25 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Drip Sauna
GROW Mills River Mixer
Jun 25 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Join us to stay updated on business in Mills River. With updates from the Town of Mills River and networking with neighboring businesses, let’s work to GROW your business in Mills River.

Thursday, June 27, 2024
 Ribbon Cutting for Food Connection
Jun 27 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Food Connection

Food Connection is a local nonprofit organization whose mission is to reduce food waste while easing hunger. They keep surplus, fresh, chef–prepared meals out of the landfill and and share them with their neighbors, no questions asked.

They will have coffee and light snacks, and a brief introduction to Food Connection by their founder, followed by a Q &A and a tour of their operations including the Mobile Meals Truck which they bring to communities to offer a free food truck experience.

Directions: They operate out of the kitchen and Parish Hall of St. George’s Episcopal Church. Parking can be accessed via School Rd. and Mimosa Dr. Overflow parking is available across Mimosa Dr. in the Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church parking lot. To enter the Parish Hall, use the green ramp next to the playground and enter through the green door.

Business After Hours
Jun 27 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Church Street Funeral and Cremation
Experience the Chamber’s Business After Hours – an event designed for real connections and genuine conversations. Mix and mingle with fellow professionals and broaden you network, meet potential clients and create a new referral source!
Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with fantastic food and beverages, courtesy of our monthly host sponsor, with the chance to win fabulous door prizes – a perfect blend of business and enjoyment!

Plus don’t miss the chance to try your luck in our 50/50 raffle!
No cost to attend, just pre-register.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks
Jul 9 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks Realtors

Come celebrate the Grand Opening of Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks real estate firm! Beverly-Hanks has joined Allen Tate and is now part of the #1 real estate company in the Carolinas! Join us in celebrating their ribbon cutting with light bites as well as refreshments.

Free Hendersonville Rockstar Connect Networking
Jul 9 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Trailside Brewing Co

Are you ready to rock the networking scene in Hendersonville? Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection and opportunity at the Rockstar Connect Networking Event on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Trailside Brewing Co.

Hosted by Jeff Patterson, this event is all about building meaningful relationships with people who get things done in Hendersonville. Our events are open to everyone to make meaningful connections, known for their friendly and engaging atmosphere, and we guarantee that you’ll feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

Don’t pass up the chance to network with the appropriate people, become part of the Hendersonville community, and create long-lasting connections that will further your career. Join our Facebook Group: Hendersonville Networking powered by Rockstar Connect

Visit our landing page: https://rockstarconnect.com/hendersonville-networking/

Jeff Patterson

Jeff Patterson

Rockstar Connect

Homepage

Introducing RockstarConnect.club: Your Exclusive Social Networking Platform

Be among the pioneers of a revolutionary social networking experience!

Join now! https://rockstarconnect.com/rockstarconnect-club/

All attendees are welcome, either living in or visiting the Greater Hendersonville, North Carolina area: Asheville, NC, Fletcher, NC, Mills River, NC, Laurel Park, NC, Flat Rock, NC, Etowah, NC, Horse Shoe, NC, Arden, NC, Biltmore Forest, NC, Mountain Home, NC, East Flat Rock, NC, Hendersonville, NC, Fairview, NC, Brevard, NC, Pisgah Forest, NC, Black Mountain, NC, Montreat, NC, Weaverville, NC, Woodfin, NC, Swannanoa, NC, Canton, NC, Clyde, NC, Waynesville, NC, Lake Lure, NC, Chimney Rock, NC, Tryon, NC, Columbus, NC, Saluda, NC, Rosman, NC, Marshall, NC.

#rockstarconnect #events #networking #businessnetworking #connection #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #business #meetup #opportunities #hendersonvillenc #northcarolina

Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Civic Federal Credit Union
Jul 10 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Civic Federal Credit Union

Across North Carolina, local government employees provide essential services for their everyday lives. Civic was created to be part of the local government world, offering member-specific financial solutions and support to build stronger communities. A member-focused Credit Union, they serve their members — not corporate interests. That means everything we do begins and ends with you.

Join us in celebrating their Grand Opening with light bites as well as beer, wine and refreshments from Twisted Laurel.

Thursday, July 11, 2024
Business After Hours
Jul 11 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Holiday Inn Asheville East – Blue Ridge Parkway

Come join us for Business After Hours at Holiday Inn Asheville East  – Blue Ridge Parkway!

Feel free to bring a gift to be raffled off as door prizes towards the end of the evening. Bring your business cards for networking and a chance to win prizes!

 

Please take a look below at our members who have renewed for another year!

 

 

This event is offered as a benefit for Chamber membership. We welcome you to come and check us out! Please contact Jessica Kanupp, our Member Development Specialist, at [email protected] if you’re considering a Chamber membership.

 

Tuesday, July 16, 2024
PROpel AVL Grow Series: Acquistion Entrepreneurship
Jul 16 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

The July session of the PROpel AVL GROW series for young professionals, we’ll explore “Acquistion Entrepreneurship.”

In the ever-evolving business landscape, “Acquisition Entrepreneurship” has emerged as a powerful pathway for young professionals eager to carve out their niche in the corporate world.

This presentation, designed specifically for forward-thinking and ambitious young professionals, will delve into the complexities and opportunities of acquiring and growing existing businesses as a form of entrepreneurship. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship that starts from scratch, acquisition entrepreneurship offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards involving the identification, evaluation, and successful takeover of existing enterprises.

The program will cover essential aspects of acquisition entrepreneurship, including the art of identifying potential acquisition targets, conducting due diligence, understanding valuation techniques, and negotiating deals. Participants will gain insights into the critical skills needed to navigate these processes successfully, such as financial analysis, market assessment, and leadership abilities to integrate and grow the acquired business. Additionally, the presentation will highlight the common pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring a smoother transition into ownership and management roles.

Key takeaways from this session will include specific, actionable strategies that young professionals can apply immediately in their pursuit of business acquisition. These include:

Frameworks for Identifying Suitable Acquisition Targets: Learn how to spot businesses with growth potential and understand what makes an acquisition target viable.

Due Diligence Checklists and Techniques: Gain knowledge on conducting thorough due diligence, a critical step in assessing a business’s true value and potential risks.

Negotiation Strategies for Acquisition: Discover key negotiation tactics for acquisition deals to ensure a beneficial agreement for all parties involved.

Post-Acquisition Integration Plans: Understand the steps necessary to successfully integrate an acquired company, from employee management to merging systems and cultures.

Financial Analysis and Funding Options: Explore financial analysis basics for acquisition and learn about various funding options, including loans, investors, and other financial instruments.

 

About the presenter:

Benjamin Wann, CMA, CSCA, MBA, PMP, owns Asheville accounting firm CFO Consultants, LLC, with a team of 13 and 2 offices in NC.

Originally from the Philadelphia region and coming from a 10-year career providing insights to executives of mid-sized manufacturing firms, Ben transitioned to entrepreneurship full-time in Nov 2022. Ben’s thesis was that the small business community would value the same expertise, technology and know-how that the large organizations have to help accelerate their own businesses.

 

12:00-1:00pm – GROW Session

Sandwiches, salad and chips will be catered by Del Vecchios!

Please register for this event in order to help us plan accordingly.

About PROpel AVL:
Designed for young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 in the Asheville/Buncombe area, PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking.

Stay connected with text alerts! Text #propelavl to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.

Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Chamber Orientation
Jul 17 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Chamber members impact the local business community by making an investment in Chamber membership. Whether you’re a new member, a long-time member with new staff, or a business who’s considering membership, we welcome you to attend our Chamber Orientation to learn how to get the most value from your membership investment.

Chamber President Kit Cramer will give an overview of the work the Chamber is doing every day to build our community, including how we support our thriving economy by growing jobs, advocating for a business-friendly environment and helping our members prosper. We’ll dive into member benefits and share ideas of how you can take advantage of the many opportunities available to you as a member. You’ll also have a chance to meet Chamber staff and learn how you can get more engaged.

Orientation is also a great chance to meet other Chamber members.

This event is free, but registration is requested in order to help us plan appropriately.

Thursday, July 18, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Drip Sauna
Jul 18 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Drip Sauna

Drip is Asheville’s first and only wood fired sauna and cold plunge experience, overlooking the beautiful French Broad River. Enjoy a traditional sauna experience in the great outdoors with friends, for a truly unique experience that will leave you energized and inspired. They’re supporting events through mobile delivery and bringing the heat to nature near you.

Come check out their new location to take in the view while enjoying a sauna and cold plunge experience. They will offer a raffle for a free sauna experience as well as other fun items on site.

Friday, July 19, 2024
AI In Production Conference
Jul 19 all-day
The Collider

AI in Production is a two-day, single-track conference designed for product teams and software developers tasked with building AI products, offering guidance on best practices and starting points.

This community event brings together professionals to exchange ideas, learn about the latest AI practices and tools, and discuss their applications and limitations with industry leaders and peers in AI and software development.

Join us to learn, network, gain inspiration, and shape the future of AI in business and applications.

Thursday, July 25, 2024
Ribbon Cutting for Coldwell Banker Advantage
Jul 25 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Coldwell Banker Advantage Western Region

Join us in celebrating the Grand Opening of Coldwell Banker Advantage with a ribbon cutting!

Tuesday, July 30, 2024
MEGA Business After Hours
Jul 30 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Elk's Lodge
Join us for the MEGA Business After Hours presented by AdventHealth Hendersonville, Beverly-Hanks, and Horizon Heating & Air! All Chamber members, their employees, and families are invited to this old-fashioned cookout and pool party! Show your spirit with your best red, white, and blue outfits in celebration of this summer’s Olympics. We’ll have a variety of exciting activities for both kids and adults, including our second annual Business Suit Cannonball Contest. Awards will be given! If you would like to participate in the Business Suit Cannonball Contest, please let us know when you register. There will be divisions for both kids and adults. This is a kid-friendly event, so bring the whole family! **Vegetarian and gluten-free options will be available.**
PROpel AVL Connect
Jul 30 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Bears Smokehouse BBQ

Join us for an evening of networking, great food and drinks at Bears Smokehouse BBQ!

 

PROpel AVL provides outstanding professional leadership development opportunities through educational seminars, service opportunities and networking for Asheville professionals between the ages of 21 and 40.

Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Volunteer with PROpel AVL and United Way
Jul 31 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s annual School Supply Drive is thrilled to give you the opportunity to help distribute backpacks to various local nonprofits for students who cannot afford school supplies. This year, PROpel AVL is teaming up with Highlands Circle, UWABC’s young professional group, to highlight how essential community service is for ensuring that everyone in Asheville and Buncombe County can thrive.

We have an important volunteer shift coming up on Wednesday, July 31st, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. During this time, we’ll be loading backpacks into vehicles, breaking down and cleaning the space, and returning items to UWABC’s offices.

By joining us, you’ll play a crucial role in providing over 2,000 backpacks to students in our county, giving thousands of children the supplies they need to succeed in school. Your participation is vital to making this initiative a success.

Every single contribution counts, and your efforts truly matter. Together, we can make a significant impact on our community. Your support will help ensure that all students have the tools they need for a bright future. Please come out and join us—your involvement can make all the difference!

To read more about school supply drive go here! If this shift does not work for you, but you would like to participate please email Ella Pullman at [email protected].

Thursday, August 1, 2024
Woman UP Workshop
Aug 1 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 am
AB Tech

WomanUP welcomes keynote speaker, author and executive coach Val Grub for a workshop on working across generations. On August 1st, we’ll explore strategies to engage with people of all ages in the workplace and embrace the wisdom of age while valuing the contributions of youth.

 

Friday, August 9, 2024
AM Power Hour
Aug 9 @ 8:00 am
Hampton Inn
Rise and shine and make your morning the catalyst to AMP UP your business! Jumpstart your morning with a burst of productivity as you mingle with prospective customers. This monthly event is your gateway to discovering strong referral sources, finding new vendors, meeting the perfect client, or establishing connections that can open doors for future interactions!  Whether you’re an early bird, or can’t make it to our after-hours, AM Power Hour is your go-to for a dynamic and energizing start to the day!2024 AM Power Hours are Presented by We Sell WNC! August is hosted by Hampton Inn!
Saturday, August 31, 2024
2024 Fairy Door Sponsor
Aug 31 all-day
Bullington Gardens

Last year, our fairy gardens attracted almost 9,000 visitors between June and August 2023. We see this as an opportunity to highlight Bullington’s circle of contributors through the sponsorship of a fairy door. The handcrafted doors will have the sponsor’s name, will be opened by guests to reveal a hidden message, and will be given to the sponsors when they are taken down after the summer.

Here are just a few statistics about the 2023 Fairy trail and sponsors from last year:

  • Visitors – Local visitors (from a 50-mile radius) numbered 2,647. Total visitors: over 8,700 from 18 countries, 41 different states, and D.C., 138 cities in N.C., 52 cities in S.C.

  • Appeared on WLOS and over 15 print publications.

  • Appeared in over a hundred social media posts (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.)

  • Acknowledgement of sponsors were printed on 1350 of the Woodland Gazettes that were given out to children as they visited.

  • Sponsors were highlighted in our Friends of Bullington newsletter.

The dates of the fairy garden will run from June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Please consider being one of our ‘Sponsors with Heart’ by purchasing a fairy door. We need to hear from you no later than April 15, 2024, so we can customize your door and message in time for the grand opening of our Fairy Gardens kickoff.

Fairy Door Sponsor Information:

Thank you for supporting Bullington Gardens, and sharing our passion for providing WNC with magical public gardens aimed to connect to the natural world and provide science-based education.

Dates: June 1- August 31, 2024

Location: Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Sponsor Benefits $350

  • Business or name listed on a medium (approx.) 12” fairy house doors. (You can help our artist to design if ordered early enough)

  • Recognition of sponsorship in Bullington Board newsletter.

  • Acknowledgment on the Bullington Gardens social media pages.

  • Sponsor logo and link on the Bullington Gardens website for 90 days

  • Donation is tax-deductible.

Invoices and tax-deductible receipts will be sent from Bullington Gardens, Inc. Please send payment and the form below by April 15, 2024. For any questions, please contact Annie Higgins at [email protected] or call (828) 698-6104

Sponsor a door here.

Saturday, September 7, 2024
Tabernacle Choir World Tour – Free Concert and Viewing Party!
Sep 7 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Tabernacle Choir World Tour – Free Concert and Viewing Party!
Saturday, September 7 at 3401 Sweeten Creek Rd, Arden, NC 28704, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
6 pm: Free Hispanic food, Latin dancing (with instruction), and music
7 pm: watching a live stream of the Tabernacle Choir performing their concert “Songs of Hope – Florida” with Jack Jack 180, Alex Melecio, and Adassa (Voice of Dolores in Disney’s Encanto)
No alcoholic beverages will be served or permitted.

Thursday, September 26, 2024
Empowerment Collective One Year Anniversary, with Therese Gopaul-Robinson & Emsee Dorf
Sep 26 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Ginger's Revenge

Empowerment Collective: Inspired Women, Elevated Conversations. Join us on Thursday, September 26th for an in-person upscale networking and speaking series that highlights the remarkable stories of women who have defied odds, shattered glass ceilings, and triumphed in their personal and professional lives.

Our mission at Empowerment Collective is to provide a dynamic platform where accomplished women can unveil their transformative journeys. In hosting our events, we cultivate a community brimming with inspiration, knowledge-sharing, and meaningful connections—uniting women throughout every stage of their personal and professional evolution.

Tucker Carlson Live Tour
Sep 26 @ 7:00 pm
Bon Secours Wellness Arena

Going into the presidential election this fall, the United States is going to be one intense place. Join Tucker Carlson and friends from coast to coast as he hits the road for his first live tour. Tucker will be joined on stage by some of the most fascinating and recognizable guests, responding to everything that is happening in real time. The Tucker Carlson Live Tour is presented by Sambrosa.com and brought to you by Swan Bitcoin.

Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Local Industry Night
Oct 23 all-day
Airport Design Center

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains (BABRM) Local Industry Night is an evening to strengthen connections within the building industry and related professionals while enjoying food from Wally’s Backyard BBQ. Many in the building and associated trades are working tirelessly to support our communities. This is a free event, but registration is requested. Register at https://members.bablueridge.com/events/details/local-industry-night-10-23-2024-4996. BABRM is currently supporting its membership by raising funds through GoFundMe (https://gofund.me/db9e4545) as well as working with BeLoved Asheville on disaster recovery efforts.

Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Chamber Family Get Down on The River
Oct 29 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Salvage Station

Join us for the Chamber Get Down on the River at the Salvage Station 4-7 pm as we celebrate you—our valued members!

Invite your employees to this free, family-friendly event. We’ll have food, beer and non-alcoholic beverages along with kids’ activities, music, fun and games for everyone!

In honor of our 125th year, we’re giving back to our incredible nonprofits. The thirteen nonprofits that each received $10,000 at our 125th Anniversary Celebration last September will return to share how they’ve used the funds and to seek your vote for an additional $5,000 grant. We’ll have a live voting platform so you can cast your vote and help decide who gets additional funding.

A huge thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Bank of America, for making this special grant possible!

We can’t wait to see you there!

No registration is needed. This is a free event, all outdoors! This event will be moved indoors in the event of weather.

we are rescheduling the Chamber Family Get Down on The River to Tuesday, October 29th, from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Salvage Station.

Friday, November 15, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 15 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 16, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 16 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 17, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 17 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Monday, November 18, 2024
Winter Lights
Nov 18 @ 6:00 pm
North Carolina Arboretum

Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show made from over one million lights! Located at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina, this year’s event features favorites like the famously tall 50-foot lighted tree and the Quilt Garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. All prices are per vehicle. No pets allowed.

Winter Lights features live entertainment nightly and food and beverages from the Bent Creek Bistro, the Cocoa Shack and the Cocoa Cabin! Open nightly from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Mega Networking – Fall 2024
Nov 19 @ 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Asheville Sun Soo Martial Arts

Making connections is key to meeting business goals and building brand awareness. Mega Networking lets you do just that. In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, you’ll meet business contacts from a variety of industries, gain exposure for your company and learn about other local businesses.

Held just twice a year, Mega Networking’s structured, “round robin” approach allows you to make valuable connections in a small group. Each person has a chance to share about their business, and a table leader moderates to put you at ease and keep the group on track. As you rotate from table to table, you’ll interact with most of the attendees, allowing you to make numerous connections in just one morning.

You’ll leave with great leads, great ideas and positive energy to keep your business moving forward.

Helpful tips:

  • *     Practice your “elevator speech” ahead of time so you can share your most important information in one minute.
  • *     Bring a little something to help others remember you and your business (something visual yet simple, AND your business card).
  • *     Stay “portable” — you’ll be moving from table to table throughout the morning.
  • *     If you’re a newcomer to this event, arrive a little early so you can settle in comfortably at your first table and learn the flow of the event without being rushed.
  • *     Schedule time now on your calendar to follow up soon with those you meet.

Cost is $50 per Chamber member, $85 for other attendees.